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AbilityLab Blog

See the latest news, updates and patient stories from Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

Ranked No. 1 by U.S. News & World Report for 35th Consecutive Year

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab again has been recognized as the national leader in rehabilitation, topping the U.S. News & World Report list for the 35th consecutive year. It remains the only hospital of any kind to hold this distinction, and has been ranked the No. 1 rehabilitation hospital every year since 1991.

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Nickolas’ Story: Healing through Education After Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Nickolas G., a physician, came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for intensive rehabilitation after becoming paralyzed by Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) — a rare disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves.

Patient Story

Research Spotlight: Cognitive Rehabilitation Improves Quality of Life for Patients with Long COVID Brain Fog

A recent study highlights the positive effects of cognitive rehabilitation in patients experiencing lingering cognitive difficulties, or “brain fog,” after experiencing COVID-19.

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A Day in the Life: Jessica Smit, Certified Prosthetist Orthotist

In recognition of Limb Loss Awareness Month this April, follow a day in the life of Jessica Smit, one of our certified prosthetist orthotists (CPOs). She shares insight into her busy day as a CPO — from fitting patients for prosthetic limbs to making adjustments for comfort and seeing some take their first steps with a prosthetic leg.

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Creating an Adjustable Prosthesis for Aquatic Therapy

In 2023, Shenan set out to find a solution for an adjustable prosthesis that would allow patients with limb loss to participate in aquatic therapy safely and easily.

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Ask the Expert: Bridget Conniff, OT, on Occupational Therapy

Bridget shares her experiences as an OT and how she works with those in inpatient rehabilitation, helping them regain function and independence.

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Pain Management for Thumb Arthritis

Carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis — also known as thumb arthritis — is a common condition that affects the CMC joint, which is located at the base of the thumb (where it connects with the wrist).

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DeMarcus’ Story: Finding Healing after Limb Loss through Art Therapy

DeMarcus P. came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab after his left foot was amputated following a work accident. Through intensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, he regained strength and learned to walk using a prosthetic leg. DeMarcus also discovered healing in our art therapy program — utilizing his creativity to process the frustration and emotional stress of his injury and recovery.

Patient Story

Schroth Method for Scoliosis: A Path to Better Spinal Health

One option for the treatment of scoliosis is the Schroth method, an exercise-based physical therapy approach. This method is available on an outpatient basis at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for patients who have scoliosis, as well as kyphosis — another spinal condition marked by an excessive rounding of the upper back.

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Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility vs. Skilled Nursing Facility: Choosing the Level of Care That’s Right for You

Patients and families have an important choice to make when deciding where to receive rehabilitation care. Two common options include inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs), like Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). The differences between them are significant — and can affect the extent and speed of recovery.

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